Minnesota Twins: Joe Mauer feeling good, taking it slow

Joe Mauer will be the Twins' first baseman this season. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

Just because Joe Mauer made the switch to first base this offseason doesn't mean he's been pounding away in the batting cage.

The Twins' franchise player, speaking Tuesday at the 74th annual St. Paul Old Timers Hot Stove League banquet, said he has yet to take his first swings as he continues to move beyond a career-altering concussion.

"It varies every year," Mauer said of his offseason routine. "This year I wanted to start off the year making sure I got over this concussion and took the time. It's going pretty good heading into the year."

Mauer, who has been symptom-free since late October, typically doesn't do much hitting in the offseason in order to conserve energy for the long grind ahead.

"I haven't swung the bat yet," Mauer said. "Last year was different because of the (World Baseball Classic), but every year it's been later and later. I'll get to camp, and I think we'll have plenty of time to get ready for the season."

This is Mauer's first offseason as a father after wife Maddie gave birth to twin daughters in July. Spending time with his family has "been great," Mauer said, adding he is feeling no ill effects from the Aug. 19 concussion that ultimately prompted the position change.

"It's been good," he said. "It's been a very productive offseason. I'm looking forward to getting down there."